The effect of balanced exercises on balance level of elderly in nursing homes    Mehdizadeh Mollabashi L [1] *, Safavy Bayat Z [2] , Yagmaey F [3] , MehrabyY [4]    Received: 26 Jan, 2011 Accepted: 19 Apr, 2011   Abstract  Background & Aims: As people grow older a number of physiological changes occur. Furthermore, low muscle strength is a risk factor for falls in older people. This study aimed to determine the effects of strength and balance exercises on elderly nursing-home residents.   Materials & Methods: This clinical trial study covered 48 elderly in three age groups (65-70, 71-75 and 76-80) that were selected through purposive sampling. They were divided into two equal groups of men and women. The pretest-posttest trial was used. Strengthening exercises were performed for one month in twelve 30-minute sessions. Data were collected using a questioner and Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA). Different statistical tests such as repeated measures ANOVA were used for data analysis by SPSS.   Results : From 48 samples, body mass index (BMI) in 31% was under 20% and in 69% BMI was between 20-25%. In the last six months, 10% reported two falls 25% reported one fall and 65% had no falls. There was a significant increase in the score of performance before and after the exercises (p

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